Ease of Doing Business Bill cleared in Assembly: ‘Main aim to cut regulatory burden, simplify processes’

The Gujarat Assembly approved the Ease of Doing Business Bill, 2026, on Friday, aiming to reduce regulatory burdens and streamline processes for businesses and citizens. Introduced by Minister of State for Industries Jayram Gamit, the Bill seeks to simplify procedures, promote self-declaration and self-certification, and bolster a technology-driven administrative framework. By consolidating amendments to five state laws, the legislation simplifies the legislative process and saves time.

Among the proposed changes, the Gujarat Fire Prevention and Life Safety Measures Act, 2013, will see fire safety standards transition to a risk-based and performance-oriented system. This adjustment would enable rules to align with local conditions and building types, thus lowering compliance costs. The Gujarat Shops and Establishments (Regulation of Employment and Conditions of Service) Act, 2019, will see easier registration and the possibility of 24/7 operations, contingent on existing labor laws.

The Gujarat Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (Facilitation of Establishment and Operation) Act, 2019, will bolster the Right to Business framework for MSMEs, while the Gujarat Medical Council Act, 1967, will facilitate easier registration for doctors from other states based on self-declaration, enhancing medical services and professional mobility.

Additionally, the Gujarat (Right of Citizen to Public Services) Act, 2013, will introduce a technology-driven auto-appeal and auto-escalation mechanism, allowing unresolved public services or grievances to automatically move to higher authorities.

These legislative amendments mark a crucial step forward for the Gujarat Industrial Policy 2026, aligning with the vision of Viksit Gujarat to Viksit Bharat @2047, as well as preparations for the upcoming 11th Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit 2027.